Nuclear + Nonproliferation
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What it is
Nuclear technology is considered “dual use,” meaning it can be used for both peaceful, civilian purposes and in military applications. Nuclear nonproliferation is an international effort to prevent the illicit development and spread of nuclear weapons while enabling the peaceful use of nuclear technology for energy, medicine, and industrial applications.
Why it matters
An increasing number of foreign states seek nuclear fuel cycle capabilities, and fuel cycle options have grown in diversity and potential for misuse. Oak Ridge National Laboratory is working with the National Nuclear Security Administration to ensure the US maintains the cutting-edge capabilities needed to prevent nefarious use of nuclear materials worldwide.
What ORNL is doing
From the world’s first continuously operating nuclear reactor to follow-on discoveries over the years, ORNL has developed unparalleled nuclear infrastructure, operations, and knowledge. Today, we build on this legacy to deliver the full spectrum of scientific, technical, and operational solutions to nonproliferation challenges around the globe. Our experts develop and implement nuclear collection and detection technologies, advance scientific understanding of the nuclear fuel cycle, and strengthen nonproliferation regimes.
What’s next
As more countries seek the advantages of nuclear materials and advanced reactor designs bring new possibilities and challenges, ORNL is ensuring detection capabilities outpace illicit nuclear activities. With investments from NNSA’s Nonproliferation Stewardship Program, ORNL is building new infrastructure – including the Uranium Science and Technology Center – that will enable advanced research, develop workforce proficiency, and improve scientific understanding of uranium chemical processing. These capabilities, combined with ORNL’s decades of expertise, will ensure the US can meet current and future nonproliferation and security challenges.
